Hybrid energy storage systems utilizing redox active organic compounds

Abstract

Redox flow batteries (RFB) have attracted considerable interest due to their ability to store large amounts of power and energy. Non-aqueous energy storage systems that utilize at least some aspects of RFB systems are attractive because they can offer an expansion of the operating potential window, which can improve on the system energy and power densities. One example of such systems has a separator separating first and second electrodes. The first electrode includes a first current collector and volume containing a first active material. The second electrode includes a second current collector and volume containing a second active material. During operation, the first source provides a flow of first active material to the first volume. The first active material includes a redox active organic compound dissolved in a non-aqueous, liquid electrolyte and the second active material includes a redox active metal.

We claim: 
     
       1. An energy storage system having a separator separating first and second electrodes, the first electrode comprising a first current collector and a first volume containing a first active material the second electrode comprising a second current collector and a second volume containing a second active material, the energy storage system characterized during operation by a first source operably connected to the first volume and configured to provide a flow of first active material, the first active material comprising a redox active organic compound dissolved in a non-aqueous electrolyte and the second active material comprising a redox active metal, wherein the redox active organic compound comprises 1 5-bis(2-(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)anthracene-9,10-dione (151)3GAQ). 
     
     
       2. The system of  claim 1 , herein the second active material comprises a solid. 
     
     
       3. The system of  claim 1 , further comprising a second source operably connected to the second volume and configured to provide during operation a flow of second active material. 
     
     
       4. The system of  claim 3 , wherein the second active material is a mixture of solid and flowable non-aqueous liquid materials. 
     
     
       5. The system of  claim 3 , wherein the second active material comprises a liquid.